Lahore – Pakistan have announced their T20I squad for the upcoming tours of Ireland and England, with the team set to begin their journey on May 10th in a three-match series against Ireland.
The big news surrounds the return of fast bowler Haris Rauf, who missed the recent series against New Zealand due to a shoulder injury sustained during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Rauf will be looking to make a strong comeback as Pakistan gears up for the marquee ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June. Another returning face is medium-pacer Hasan Ali, who has been recalled to the squad after a period on the sidelines.
The selectors have opted for continuity by retaining the core of the squad that faced New Zealand. Usama Mir and Zaman Khan are the notable omissions, while Salman Ali Agha, who was part of the reserve contingent during the home series, has earned a spot in the 18-man traveling party.
There are injury concerns surrounding two key players. Azam Khan, a hard-hitting wicketkeeper-batsman, was ruled out of the entire New Zealand series due to a leg issue, while Mohammad Rizwan, the first-choice wicketkeeper, missed the last two matches with a hamstring injury. Both players have been included in the squad, with their availability for the opening matches depending on their recovery progress.
Babar Azam will continue to lead the T20I side after being reinstated as captain for the recently concluded series against New Zealand, which ended in a 2-2 draw following a washout in the first encounter.
With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, this tour serves as crucial preparation for Pakistan. The squad boasts a strong batting line-up featuring Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Rizwan (subject to fitness), and young talents like Saim Ayub and Usman Khan. The middle-order has depth with Azam Khan (fitness permitting), Iftikhar Ahmed, and Mohammad Irfan Khan. All-round options are provided by Imad Wasim, Shadab Khan, and Salman Ali Agha.
The bowling attack carries a potent pace threat with Mohammad Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, and the ever-reliable Shaheen Shah Afridi. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed adds variety to the bowling attack.
Pakistan will be aiming to hit the ground running in Ireland and use the England series to fine-tune their strategy and identify their best possible combination for the World Cup.
